foundation stone

noun

1. any of the stones composing the foundation of a building.
2. a cornerstone.

foundation stone

noun

1. a stone laid at a ceremony to mark the foundation of a new building

Word History and Origins

Origin of foundation stone¹

First recorded in 1645–55

Example Sentences

But if you're already up to the first floor, how can you be laying the foundation-stone on Wednesday week?

From Project Gutenberg

The foundation stone was laid March 31, in the present year, and the building is to be completed by Christmas next.

From Project Gutenberg

We are all agreed that the ballot is the foundation-stone of our entire political structure.

From Project Gutenberg

That is the foundation stone, the corner and the base of our edifice, and upon it our Government is on trial to-day.

From Project Gutenberg

The foundation stone of a new science laboratory was laid by King George on 6th July, 1920.

From Project Gutenberg